Owen Culbert performed at St John’s University Saturday, Aug. 12 as part of the 2017-2018 MMEA All-State Choir.

Nearly 1,500 high school students auditioned for All-State last spring. Judges listened to the students, evaluating them on their overall musicianship and technique. In mid-April, the MMEA Executive Committee chose the final rosters, selecting 565 students for the seven All-State groups (band, orchestra, choirs and jazz ensembles).

Each All-State camp began Monday, Aug. 7, when students met their guest conductor and began long hours of rehearsals and sectionals. Although the major focus during the summer camp was making music, a full schedule of recreation and social activities gave students an opportunity to relax and develop new friendships.

The Aug. 12 concert was the result of great dedication and commitment by some of the most talented young musicians in Minnesota. All of the young musicians will also meet to perform as part of the MMEA Midwinter Clinic in February of 2018.

Owen is the son of Jason and Lia Culbert and will be a junior at Austin High School.